Chandler Hutchison focused on being 'aggressive' and 'reliable on the defensive end' ahead of 4th start of his career

Jan 04, 2019 | by Michael Walton, NBC Sports Chicago

Bulls head coach Jim Boylen confirmed that rookie Chandler Hutchison will start at SF against the Indiana Pacers on Saturday night.

“Chandler will start at the 3. I like him there, I like his defense, I like his length, I like his rebounding....I think it’s a great opportunity for him, I’m excited as heck to see him play.

I wanna see him compete.....less is more, just compete and.....if he plays like ‘Bulls’ across his chest is important to him, I’ll feel good about it.”

Hutchison was excited, but calm as he discussed his view on his being thrust into a larger role.

“I am in there in the starting group as of shootaround today but.....I don't think my role changes just more opportunities are gonna come.....gotta take advantage of them

Our focus lately has been better first quarter starts so now my focus comes in on.....helping the team start better off in these games. That’s what I’m going to focus on.

I’m just gonna continue to play the game and be aggressive when the opportunities come and then just continue to be reliable on the defensive end.”

Hutchison talked about how everything he has been through this year has been a surprise but credited Justin Holiday with helping him prepare for the NBA.

“Justin was my guy....he’s helped me alot through learning, y’know playing similar positions so, it’s tough to see that but we all gotta be ready and it’s the next man up type of deal.”

When asked if he is going to be a more aggressive 3-point shooter with Holiday gone, Hutchison responded diplomatically, “I think that’s gonna come naturally with being on the court more and being in more of a scoring role out there.

I’m just gonna continue to play my game. I can’t try to fill shoes just because of the type of player that Justin was, I’m just gonna continue to be who...I am out there and do what I can to help the team win.”